Ahern, 54, of Livermore, has been sheriff/coroner for Alameda County since 2007, and has served in the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office since 1980; he was as assistant sheriff from 2006 to 2007, commander from 2005 to 2006, captain from 2003 to 2005, lieutenant from 2000 to 2003, sergeant from 1986 to 2000 and deputy sheriff from 1980 to 1986.

The position requires state Senate confirmation and the compensation is $100 per diem. Ahern is registered to vote as a Republican.

The three-member commission oversees the state lottery to ensure its integrity, security and fairness, holding public meetings at least once a quarter. Members serve five-year terms, and at least one member must have five or more years of experience in law enforcement. The previous law-enforcement member was Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims.